LBy Rahim Abdul
Principal Secretary for Natural Resources and Climate Change (Administration), Mr. Richard Perekamoyo, today officially opened a four day capacity building training for journalists focused on environmental and climate change reporting.
The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change in collaboration with partners, is taking place in Mponela, Dowa District.
In his keynote address, Mr. Perekamoyo stressed the critical role of the media in shaping national consciousness on climate change and environmental stewardship.
“The stories you tell have the power to influence action, shape policies, and inspire communities,” he said.
“We are relying on you to help Malawians understand the urgency of climate change and the solutions available to tackle it,”he added.
He underscored that the Ministry recognizes journalists as “architects of public understanding, catalysts for action, and guardians of accountability.”
Perekamoyo further urged reporters to highlight not only the challenges posed by environmental degradation and climate impacts such as floods and droughts, but also the innovative solutions and community resilience efforts emerging across the country.
“Let your reporting be factual, inclusive, and solution-oriented. It should showcase both the challenges and the courage of ordinary Malawians, the efforts of government and partners, and the innovations that can light the way forward,” he emphasized.
The PS assured participants that the Ministry is committed to strengthening collaboration with the media, so environmental and climate change issues receive the prominence they deserve in shaping the national development agenda.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Director of Environmental Affairs, Mr. Ben Yasin, highlighted that the training is designed to equip journalists with technical and ethical tools necessary for reporting complex environmental matters.
“Many environmental issues, including climate change, require an understanding of scientific data and trends. This training will enhance your capacity to interpret and communicate such information accurately and responsibly,” Yasin said.
He added that journalists who are well-versed in environmental reporting can play a key role in educating the public, influencing policy decisions, and holding authorities accountable for environmental protection.
The training, attended by journalists from across the country and members of the Association of Environmental Journalists in Malawi (AEJ-Malawi), will cover various modules including Climate science and policy frameworks,Investigative environmental reporting techniques,
Storytelling approaches that drive solutions and action, andEthical and fact-based reporting on environmental issues.
